Fin's Fish Guide
The Longtail catfish (Clariallabes longicauda) is a freshwater fish of the family Clariidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
Clariallabes longicauda is an African air-breathing catfish of the family Clariidae from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a strongly elongate, eel-like body with a long tail, a flattened head and four pairs of barbels, and reaches about 28 cm. Like other clariids it has an accessory breathing organ above the gills with which it can breathe air and survive oxygen-poor water. It lives on the bottom of vegetated, slow-flowing waters. The diet is omnivorous: a stomach was found to contain remains of decayed plants and insects. Owing to its secretive habits little is known about its precise biology.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longtail catfish?
The Longtail catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Eel-like body with a long tail and four pairs of barbels; breathes air through an accessory organ.
Where does the Longtail catfish live?
The Longtail catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Vegetated waters of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Longtail catfish get?
The Longtail catfish grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Longtail catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Longtail catfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Longtail catfish edible?
The Longtail catfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Clariallabes
More from the family Clariidae
Want the complete picture on the Longtail catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longtail catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.